Ice link, Aux, CD changer cable questions
 

Okay, I am totally confused after all the info I have read. I've looked at the DIY's on the front page but I am unsure as to what is really going on with some of the installations:

FYI - '03 4.4i w/o NAV & w/o DSP

Does the icelink connect to the back of the business CD or does it connect to the CD changer controls in the rear area?

If I connect the icelink, does that mean I loose functionality of the CD player?

If I add the Blitzsafe XM Direct box, could I use the RCA's for something other than an XM box (like a DVD player or ..... carputer [did he say car-computer? hehe) or does it have to be the XM Direct unit?

After adding the Blitzsafe, do I still have business CD functionality?

I've never seen my MID go to an "AUX" choice; does this only happen when you've connected one of the above-mentioned devices?

What would be the best path to run cables form the MID/business CD area to the rear area where the CD changer and other devices usually go? Would that be a DIY or should I chunk up tha cash?

I appreciate any and everyone's help with this.... :thumbup:


Kryptonite

Let's give this a shot:

The ice>Link Plus will connect to the 3-pin and 6-pin CD Changer connectors in the cargo area. a 15-foot wiring harness is included to bring the iPod into the cabin area with you.

CD Changer yes, but not the in-dash CD Player. This is still retained.

No reason to, we have an AUX kit for much less here:

http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=262

If you do want XM, we have these as well:

http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=267

No, you can even have the ice>Link, XM Direct and AUX all working together as different modes on the Business CD unit.

You need the BMW AUX kit, we offer these for $35 in stock.

Some people leave the iPod in the cargo area for simplicity, or the iPOd can be run underneath the doorsills, underneath the front seat to the center console or glovebox - this is an easy DIY job that takes about 45 minutes.

A good install guide is right here on the website: http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/s...ll-bmw-x5.html

Let me know if you have any further questions! :thumbup:

I am assuming that this is something different than the $29 iceink aux add-on right? I have a prod date 1/03 X5; Does that mean I should already have an aux in or am i mis-thinking this?

BTW, that was an AWESOME response to my questions :thumbup: For that, you just found yourself a new customer :thumbup:

Your production date says that your Head Unit is compatible for AUX, it just needs the AUX cable. As soon as it is plugged into the head unit, "AUX" will come up as a selection.

And here's where my brain takes a nose dive: If I add the ice>link, then add that $29 AUX adapter for the ice>link (that looks like it plugs into the 3-pin changer connector), will i be able to seamlessly move from business CD, to iPod, and EVEN to AUX (using the additional AUX adaptor for ice>link) or will I need to perform the AUX install behind the MID (head unit) to have that functionality?

The iPod will need to be removed from the ice>Link to allow the ice>Link to revert to AUX mode. Then you are able to use AUX via the icelink.

I think in your case, the BMW kit would be a better choice since your NAV device is in the cabin area.

Sounds quite interesting.....

I don't have NAV (yet), but when I do, it will be aftermarket. I think I may go with your ice>link as a immediate solution, and after I get the other items ready for installation, add the AUX input for further distribution. But as you noted before, I will still have full use of the cd player up front WITH the ice>link installed....


Tom G., you are THE MAN!

:thumbup:

Im also thinking of installing the icelink and have the following questions:

1. I have heard someone mention upgrading the firmware of the icelink? Was I dreaming because I was under the impression that the icelink kit was just a bunch of cables???

2. Is the icelink generally compatible with the ipod nano or is it a specific icelink model that needs to be used?

Thanks a mil!

Geeez, anybody???